Phillips is a safe choice for Walz in navigating the perilous politics of the Iron Range. He’s broadly liked by people who interact with the agency. He’s also steered the agency away from the “swing and miss” mistakes of previous years, focusing on small projects and livability initiatives. In fact, the Iron Range Resources newsletter has even begun to inspire posts at this blog, which never happened before.

Probably most important to Walz, Phillips won’t upset the delicate power balance on a changing Iron Range. Old school Range DFLers, new Republican board members, mining advocates and budding new technocrats. All with egos the size of Giants Ridge.

Oh, and Giants Ridge bleeds cash.

Have I mentioned it’s not an easy job?

The Walz-Flanagan Administration appears to be making some ambitious moves with some of its commissioner selections, auguring for big policy pushes ahead. They likely don’t want a lot of hassle at Iron Range Resources, so Phillips gets another go as commissioner.

Lake Time Magazine “Best of Minnesota” Award: Best Writer & Blog

Overburden: Modern Life on the Iron Range

By Aaron Brown
A 21st century memoir of a place and a people:
(Buy now on Amazon) -- The Iron Range is a string of blue collar towns along an iron formation in northern Minnesota, many of which ... Read More →

The Great Northern Radio Show features music, comedy & stories about modern life off the beaten path: written, produced & hosted by Aaron J. Brown with a talented supporting troupe and the best Minnesota musicians and guests. Each episode of the Great Northern Radio Show is broadcast from a different small town or off-the-wall ... Read More →